Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Apple AirPods 4

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE is the better pick — it scores 68/100 to the Apple AirPods 4's 55, leading on Noise Cancelling and Connectivity. Choose the Apple AirPods 4 instead if audio and battery matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Sound quality isn't scored yet (we have no measured audio data), so the score covers features, battery, noise cancelling and build.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE leads overall

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

Apple AirPods 4

Why it stands out

Battery Life per Charge: 6 h (20% more)

Winner by category for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Apple AirPods 4
Category	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Apple AirPods 4	Winner
Audio	4	96	Apple AirPods 4
Noise Cancelling	96	4	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Battery	45	51	Apple AirPods 4
Connectivity	96	68	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE
Calls	85	85	Tie
Build	60	76	Apple AirPods 4

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE (model SM-R420) are wireless earbuds positioned as a cost-effective alternative within Samsung's third-generation audio lineup. They feature an updated stem design, modern Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, and active noise cancellation. Serving as the successor to the original Galaxy Buds FE, this model integrates Samsung's Galaxy AI ecosystem features at a launch price of $149.99.

Best for Samsung ecosystem users seeking active noise cancellation and AI features at a l

Pros

Equipped with active noise cancellation and Galaxy AI integration
Updated with modern Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity
Redesigned stem structure for improved wear and accessibility

Cons

Higher launch price of $149.99 compared to typical budget-tier entry options

Source

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 - WikipediaProvided model number SM-R420, release date, $149.99 pricing, Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, stem design, and core feature set including ANC and Galaxy AI.

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Nov 3, 2026

Apple AirPods 4

The Apple AirPods 4 are open-style wireless earbuds powered by Apple's H2 chip, featuring a slightly smaller physical footprint than previous generations. Apple offers two distinct versions: a standard base model priced at $129 and a step-up variant at $179 that introduces Active Noise Cancellation. These earbuds target users who prefer an unsealed, open-fit design while taking advantage of Apple's latest audio processing platform.

Best for Listeners who dislike silicone ear tips but still want active noise cancellationBest for iPhone users looking for an affordable modern entry point into the AirPods lineu

Pros

Equipped with Apple's powerful H2 chip for advanced audio processing
Active noise cancellation option available in an open-ear form factor
Base model launched at a lower price point ($129) than its direct predecessor
Slightly smaller and updated physical design for improved ergonomics

Cons

Active Noise Cancellation is restricted to the more expensive $179 model variant

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

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Apple AirPods 4

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Physical Comparison

Weight, side by side

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

41.8g

Weight

Apple AirPods 4

32.3g

Weight

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE

Weight

Apple AirPods 4

4.3g

Weight

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Audio

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Apple AirPods 4
Driver Type	Dynamic	N/A
Driver Size	N/A	N/A
Frequency Response	N/A	N/A
Spatial Audio with Head Tracking	No	Yes

Noise Cancelling

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Apple AirPods 4
Active Noise Cancelling	Yes	No
Transparency Mode	Yes	No

Battery

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Apple AirPods 4
Battery Life per Charge	6 h20% more	5 h
Total Battery Life with Case	24 h	30 h25% more
Quick Charge	N/A	Yes
Wireless Charging Case	No	No

Connectivity

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Apple AirPods 4
Bluetooth Version
Supported Codecs	SBC, AAC, SSC	N/A
Multipoint Connection	N/A	N/A

Calls

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Apple AirPods 4
Microphones per Earbud	3	3

Build

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE	Apple AirPods 4
IP Rating
Weight per Earbud	5 g	4.3 g14% less
Case Weight	41.8 g	32.3 g23% less

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE vs Apple AirPods 4 comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE rates higher at 68/100 versus 57/100 for Apple AirPods 4 — a 11-point lead. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE and Apple AirPods 4 are compared side by side above across every spec in the earbuds category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 68/100 for Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE and 57/100 for Apple AirPods 4.

If you want the higher-rated earbuds option overall, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE (68/100) edges out Apple AirPods 4 (57/100). But if Apple AirPods 4 is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.